The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) last week met to examine the Auditor-General's report on the State Department for Wildlife for the fiscal year ending on June 30, 2022.

One of the major concerns raised in the report is the huge backlog of pending bills resulting from human-wildlife conflicts. These unpaid bills amount to Kshs2.3 billion and are expected to increase to Kshs.5.7 billion as more claims await verification for compensation.

These claims result from losses caused by wildlife such as injuries, fatalities, and property damages.

Principal Secretary, State Department for Wildlife, Ms. Silvia Kihoro informed Members that the Ministry plans to implement an insurance scheme to address the issue of unpaid victims of human-wildlife conflicts.

Vice-Chairperson of the Committee, Hon. Tindi Mwale (Butere) urged the Government to explore innovative funding mechanisms such as public-private partnerships and eco-tourism revenue sharing to support conservation efforts and alleviate the financial burden on affected communities.

Hon. Yakub Adow (Bura) proposed a multi-faceted approach that combines short-term relief measures with long-term sustainable solutions to address the issue and called upon the Government to take swift action to mitigate the suffering and financial strain experienced by those affected.

Hon. (Dr.) Edwin Mugo (Mathioya) recommended the immediate allocation of resources to expedite the verification and settlement of pending claims saying it provides much-needed relief to the affected individuals and communities.

Hon. (Dr.) Wilberforce Oundo (Funyula) asked for enhanced collaboration between the State Department, wildlife conservation organizations, and relevant stakeholders to develop sustainable strategies for mitigating human-wildlife conflicts.

Members emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about the consequences of human-wildlife conflicts and the need for proactive conservation measures.